Ten Years of Impact: BelSU Regional Microbiological Centre Marks Its Anniversary

The Belgorod State University (BelSU) Regional Microbiological Centre (RMC) is marking its 10th anniversary, having been established in 2015.

The Centre focuses on scientific research and development across various fields of microbiology, including agro-industrial, environmental, technical, medical, and pharmaceutical applications. Created to serve as a foundation for extensive research in microbiology and related sciences, the RMC has become a key communication hub in the region. It fosters close collaboration between university researchers and local businesses, promoting dynamic social and economic development in the Belgorod Region.

Since 2019, the Centre has been directed by Doctor of Biology, Professor Inna Solyanikova. Her research interests include microbial degradation of persistent pollutants, microbial responses to stress, protein isolation and characterization, and the application of microorganisms in biotechnology and biopreparations.

Reflecting on the first decade of the Centre’s work, Prof. Solyanikova emphasized that these years have been dedicated not only to establishing and expanding the RMC but also to the professional and academic growth of its staff. The Centre employs graduates from the Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, including both master’s and bachelor’s students. Its primary research efforts focus on developing technologies that enhance eco-balance in agriculture, particularly through biopreparations aimed at controlling phytopathogens, stimulating plant growth, and increasing crop yields. The RMC is also actively searching for bacteria with insecticidal properties.

“The use of these biopreparations could significantly reduce reliance on pesticides. Our team, along with students engaged in scientific activities, is broadening the scope of our research to include biopreparations for the fish industry, dairy processing plants, and livestock farming,” stated Solyanikova.

The RMC collaborates with various enterprises in the Belgorod Region as well as scientific organizations affiliated with the Russian Academy of Sciences.

Current partnerships include agreements with the Belgorod Regional State Healthcare Institution “TB Dispensary,” Pavlov State University in St. Petersburg, and several businesses from Belgorod, Krasnodar, and other regions.

In addition to its scientific endeavours, the RMC engages in projects under business agreements. “The proactive work of our young researchers is evidenced by patents for intellectual property and accolades from both Russian and international exhibitions,” noted Solyanikova.

The Centre boasts numerous accomplishments which include a gold medal and an honorary diploma from the International Salon of Innovations and Inventions in Sevastopol, a diploma and gold medal from the ROSBIOTECH Exhibition, as well as highest rank awards from an international competition of inventions in Taiwan and the top prizes at World Invention Forum in Cyprus.

Looking ahead, the RMC aims to strengthen its collaboration with professionals specializing in market analysis and technology transfer to enhance its impact on the economy.

“My primary goal for this year is to support my first graduate students, class of 2024 graduates Nikita Lyakhovchenko and Vlad Senchenkov, as they prepare to defend their candidate dissertations. Ten years is a sufficient timeframe for an applicant to evolve into a highly qualified professional,” concluded Solyanikova.